Portugal team's WC jersey numberings unveiled; Ruben Neves to wear late Jota's number 21
Houston, May 3
The Portugal training session on Tuesday witnessed a visit from the national women's team and unveiling of numbering on players' jerseys, with the number 21, worn by late Diogo Jota, to be used by his close friend Ruben Neves.
Jota, who passed away last year in a road accident in a car crash, will have his number worn by Ruben. Ruben had earlier spoken about the late footballer's spiritual presence in the team during Monday's presser.
The number six jersey will be worn by Matheus Nunes and will play a bit as a right-back. Same will be wearing number 24. Tomas Araujo will be sporting number four on his back, while Nuno Mendes got the number 25, as per Publico.
The remaining lower numbers will see Diogo Costa, Nelson Semedo, Ruben Dias, Diogo Dalot, Cristiano Ronaldo, Bruno Fernandes, Goncalo Ramos, Bernardo Silva and Joao Felix wearing numbers 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11 respectively.
After having conquered club glory in every country/continent and having won international titles like the UEFA Euro and the Nations League, the 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo will be making his sixth FIFA World Cup appearance in a pursuit of the game's grandest prize, which continues to elude him despite his legendary status in the game. The veteran's confidence would also be really high after a fantastic Saudi Pro League title-winning season with Al Nassr.
Portugal will prepare for the WC with friendlies against Chile on June 6 and Nigeria on June 10 and will start the WC campaign against Congo on June 17, followed by a clash with Uzbekistan on June 23, before concluding the group stage against Colombia on June 27.
Portugal World Cup squad:
Goalkeepers: Diogo Costa (FC Porto), Jose Sa (Wolverhampton Wanderers), Rui Silva (Sporting CP); Ricardo Velho (Genclerbirligi Ankara).
Defenders: Diogo Dalot (Manchester United); Matheus Nunes (Manchester City), Nelson Semedo (Fenerbahce SK), Joao Cancelo (FC Barcelona), Nuno Mendes (PSG), Goncalo Inacio (Sporting CP), Renato Veiga (Villarreal); Ruben Dias (Manchester City); Tomas Araujo (SL Benfica).
Midfielders: Ruben Neves (Al Hilal), Samuel Costa (Mallorca), Joao Neves (PSG), Vitinha (PSG), Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United), Bernardo Silva (Manchester City).
Forwards: Joao Felix (Al Nassr), Francisco Trincao (Sporting CP), Francisco Conceicao (Juventus), Pedro Neto (Chelsea), Rafael Leao (AC Milan), Goncalo Guedes (Real Sociedad), Goncalo Ramos (PSG); Cristiano Ronaldo (Al Nassr).
— ANI
Reader Comments
Ronaldo at 41 still chasing that World Cup—respect the dedication! But honestly, Portugal's group looks tricky with Congo, Uzbekistan, and Colombia. Should be interesting from a neutral fan's perspective. 🇮🇳⚽
Matheus Nunes wearing number 6 and playing right-back? That's some tactical flexibility from the coach. Also, glad to see young players like Joao Neves and Tomas Araujo getting their spots. Portugal building a strong future alongside CR7!
RIP Diogo Jota 💔 Such a talented player gone too soon. The Portugal team feels his presence. Excited to see how Ruben Neves honors his memory on the pitch. World Cup will be emotional for them.
Portugal's squad depth is incredible—look at those midfield options! Bruno, Bernardo, Vitinha, Neves... they can dominate any game. Only concern is the defense without a peak Pepe. But Ronaldo's hunger for that WC trophy is unmatched. Come on Portugal! 🇵🇹
Interesting that they released this now—feels like PR more than anything. But yes, the Jota tribute is genuinely touching. Hope Ruben Neves does justice to that number. Also, why is Cancelo not in the squad? He's been solid for Barca! 🤔
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